What’s New?
Introduced during the 2006 calendar year, the Saturn Sky is an all-new model for 2007. The soft-top convertible is available in both regular and Red Line performance versions. The same Ecotec engines that GM uses in many of its compact models can also be found in the Sky, with a 2.4-liter, 177-hp version installed on base models, while the supercharged 4-cylinder Ecotec is featured in the Red Line. The supercharged engine produces 260 hp and 260 lb.-ft. of torque.

Overview
The Sky roadster, an all-new model for Saturn, is based on GM’s global Kappa platform, with a design inspired by a concept from Vauxhall. It shares its platform with the Pontiac Solstice. The clamshell forward-opening hood and sculpted sides on the Sky translate to an attractive overall appearance. The convertible top on the Sky, however, is a mixed bag. On the one hand, it’s relatively easy to use and makes the car look as good with the top up as it does when it’s down. The drawback is that the operator must get out of the car and open up the reverse-opening trunk to remove the top before it can be locked into place. With the top down, storage is reduced from 5.4 cubic feet to just 2.0 liters, so plan accordingly if taking a trip with an overnight stay.

Inside, the Sky is close quarters for two. Cloth seats are standard, with leather being available. Power windows, door locks, and mirrors are also standard, as are 18-inch wheels, remote keyless entry, and OnStar, GM’s in-vehicle communications and safety technology. In addition to the high-performance engine, the Red Line adds a limited-slip differential, performance suspension tuning, StabiliTrak stability control that helps the driver regain control of the vehicle in the event of an understeer of oversteer situation, and 18-inch polished alloy wheels.

Two transmissions are available on the Sky: a manual 5-speed or an optional 5-speed automatic. The Sky also features a hydraulic power steering system for good handling feel and 4-wheel disc brakes with standard anti-lock feature. Attesting to the Sky’s performance capabilities, 0-60 mph times are 7.2 seconds for the base (2.4-liter) model, and an impressive 5.5 seconds for the supercharged Red Line model. Even with the supercharged engine, the Sky achieves a respectable 22 mpg in the city and 31 on the highway with the 5-speed automatic transmission.

The Competition
The Saturn Sky competes in the Compact Sporty segment, which consists of 10 models. Buyers in this segment look for exterior styling, fuel economy, and performance, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Avoider Study^SM and the Escaped Shopper Study.^SM

The top sellers in the segment during calendar year 2006, according to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,^SM were the Scion tC (79,125), Subaru Impreza (41,148), and Mitsubishi Lancer (23,167). The Saturn Sky sold 8,671 units in 2006 in its first year on the market. Other models offered in the Compact Sporty segment include the Pontiac Solstice, Hyundai Tiburon, Mazda Miata, Volkswagen Eos, and Subaru Outback Sport.